A Stolen Life In 1946, Bette Davis played a dual role in A Stolen Life, the story of identical twins with very different personalities. It’s a melodramatic film, predictable yet thoroughly enjoyable, and it’s one that has always stuck with me. I imagine it is a desire to call upon my own evil twin, to […]
First Coffee, Second Coffee
Coffee in the quiet First coffee in the morning, without rushing. Italian Roast, freshly brewed. The aroma, savored before I swallow. I will take my time. With everything. Even writing. Heaven. It is Saturday. There will be no lunch making at 7:30 a.m., no sluggish adolescent to poke and prod to get him to stir, […]
Can We Ever “Set the Record Straight?”
Those who provide the comforting advice that “one day, your kids will know what you gave up for them” are well-intentioned, and even kind. What parent doesn’t want to believe that appreciation will come for all our efforts, at some point in the future? But I question the premise, the concept of eventual “justice” when […]
If I close my eyes so I may dream. . .
If I close my eyes to dream, I must fill the empty pages. If I close my eyes to dream, I journey to Paris where I am invisible, and I am seen. I make my way to the Seine, I walk along its quais and through its crowds, I wander north,through jostling neighborhoods toward home, […]
Bad Mood? Let’s Bitch!!
There is always another side. Another story. On the other end of the phone line or behind the deli counter. The sullen neighbor, taking out his garbage can. Or the truth behind the man or woman who disappears from your life without explanation. There are overworked employees at the big company who screw up. Maybe […]
Building Bridges
Reaching out a second time around can be an overwhelming challenge.
I did what I was told
Whatever it was, I did what I was told, the quintessential good girl following the rules: I studied, I smiled, I won awards, I did not rebel, I lived with secrets. I followed the rules and did not cheat though I saw others do so and prosper; I followed the rules and did not lie […]
Taxing
Yes, it’s that time of year. Dammit. Pulling papers together. Searching through piles for receipts. Shuffling through forms and instructions to take care of taxes. Funny that we say things are “taxing” when they are endlessly wearying. As language usage, is that the chicken or the egg? Tax season When tax season rolls around, I […]
Avoidance
Avoidance or procrastination? Let’s be clear. Avoidance is not the same as procrastination. Avoidance is a fine art unto itself. A coping strategy. No 12-step program is required. I am avoiding the email account I use for “dating.” Thus, I don’t have to deal with the issue of Date Night Guy. I am avoiding calling […]
Why I Suck at Dating
Last weekend I ventured out. On Date Night. It was… interesting. An enjoyable dinner. And a strange dénouement. Then I waxed winsomely on the subject of body language and touch, and interpreting non-verbal communication. Not quite one week later, here’s my take: I suck at dating. How to determine your dating prowess Care to know […]